How Are Scrap Car Prices Determined?
Scrap car prices are primarily determined by two factors: a vehicle’s weight and the current scrap metal rate per ton. Together, these establish your car’s base scrap value. However, salvageable parts—such as catalytic converters, aluminum wheels, or copper radiators—can increase that value well beyond the base price.
How to Calculate the Scrap Value of a Car
- Find your vehicle’s weight: Use Junk Car Reaper’s Vehicle Weight Lookup Tool, check your owner’s manual, or read the label on the driver’s door.
- Check local scrap metal prices: Look up current rates per ton in your area.
- Multiply weight × price per ton: Multiply your car’s weight (in tons) by the scrap rate to find its base scrap value.
Example: A 2-ton vehicle at $175 per ton has a base value of $350. If it includes a catalytic converter worth $100 and aluminum wheels worth $150, the total could rise to $600.
Factors That Increase a Car’s Value Beyond Scrap
While the scrap value sets a baseline, many junk cars are worth significantly more if they are complete, drivable, or contain valuable components. Below are common parts that raise a car’s value beyond its metal content:
- Catalytic Converter: +$50–$450 (contains platinum and palladium)
- Aluminum Wheels: +$50–$200 (four wheels = 60–80 lbs of aluminum)
- Copper Radiator: +$40–$80 (10–20 lbs of copper)
- Battery: +$10–$20 (lead core value)
- Wire Harness: +$20–$40 (high copper concentration)
These parts can add hundreds to your vehicle’s total value, especially when the scrap market is strong. For a deeper breakdown of these variables, see How Much Are Junk Cars Worth?
Current Scrap Values of a Vehicle by Weight
A vehicle’s weight is the primary factor that determines its scrap value. Heavier vehicles contain more metal and therefore yield higher payouts. For example, large trucks weighing around 6,000 pounds (3 tons) are worth more than compact sedans at 2,000–3,000 pounds (1–1.5 tons). Completeness also matters — missing components reduce total weight, while intact parts such as the engine, transmission, and catalytic converter increase value. Catalytic converters are especially valuable because they contain platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
Because most vehicles are 55–65% steel, scrap metal prices directly influence total payout. At current rates of $150–$200 per ton (average $175), here’s what typical vehicles are worth when scrapped:
| Vehicle Type & Weight | Estimated Scrap Value |
|---|---|
| 2,000 lbs (Compact Car, ~1 ton) | $150–$200 |
| 3,000 lbs (Midsize Sedan, ~1.5 tons) | $225–$300 |
| 4,000 lbs (SUV, ~2 tons) | $300–$400 |
| 5,000 lbs (Pickup Truck, ~2.5 tons) | $375–$500 |
| 6,000 lbs (Large Truck, ~3 tons) | $450–$600 |
*Weights are approximate based on average curb weights. Prices reflect the scrap metal value of complete vehicles and vary with market rates.
View current scrap values for specific makes and models:
Scrap Car Prices Per Ton by State
While national scrap rates average about $175 per ton in October 2025, prices vary widely by region. States with steel mills, ports, or dense auto markets tend to offer higher payouts, while remote or rural areas may pay less. The map and table below show the average scrap car prices per ton across the U.S., based on current metal market conditions.
Price per Ton
Our Methodology
We collect data from numerous metal recycling facilities nationwide to assemble our pricing map. Junk Car Reaper stays up with scrap car prices in locations across the U.S. because it enables us to make the best offers for vehicles. Prices shown are average market rates per ton for scrap vehicles. Actual prices may vary based on current metal market conditions, vehicle condition, and local demand. Hover over any state to see detailed pricing information.
Current Scrap Car Prices by State
The table below provides a regional state-by-state breakdown of scrap car prices per ton currently.
| State | Estimated Price Range | Complete Car Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Alaska | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
| Arizona | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Arkansas | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
| California | $170 to $200 | $170.00 to $700.00 |
| Colorado | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Connecticut | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Delaware | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Florida | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Georgia | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Hawaii | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
| Idaho | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
| Illinois | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Indiana | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Iowa | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Kansas | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
| Kentucky | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Louisiana | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Maine | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Maryland | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Massachusetts | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Michigan | $170 to $200 | $170.00 to $700.00 |
| Minnesota | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Mississippi | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Missouri | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Montana | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
| Nebraska | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Nevada | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| New Hampshire | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| New Jersey | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| New Mexico | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| New York | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| North Carolina | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| North Dakota | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Ohio | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Oklahoma | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Oregon | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Pennsylvania | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Rhode Island | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| South Carolina | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| South Dakota | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Tennessee | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Texas | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Utah | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Vermont | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
| Virginia | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Washington | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| West Virginia | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Wisconsin | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Wyoming | $140 to $170 | $140.00 to $595.00 |
Current Market Conditions & Analysis
Current Market Indicators
- Market Direction: 📉️ Decreasing (-4.5% since August 2025)
- 12-Month High: $185/ton (August 2025)
- 12-Month Low: $115/ton (January 2025)
- Current Avg Price: $174/ton (October 2025)
- Projected Trend: Slight decline expected through Q4
What Drives Scrap Car Prices
- Vehicle Weight: Heavier cars are more valuable.
- Metal Composition: Aluminum & copper increase value.
- Vehicle Completeness: Missing parts reduces weight.
- Location: Demand and yard capacity.
- Current Market: Metal prices fluctuate.
FAQs About Scrap Car Prices
How often do scrap car prices change?
Scrap car prices fluctuate weekly due to global market activity, local supply, and seasonal demand. Summer months, including August, tend to see higher prices due to construction and manufacturing activity. Expect weekly shifts of 3–7% and monthly changes of up to 20%.
Is now a good time to scrap my car?
Yes. Scrap car prices are still strong as we head into the fall season, with current rates trending above the 12-month average. Seasonal demand and stable commodity prices make October still a favorable time to sell. Waiting further into fall could mean a 10–15% drop in value based on historic trends.
Why does the scrap price of a car fluctuate?
Scrap prices fluctuate due to global demand for steel, copper, and aluminum. Economic cycles, trade activity, and seasonal shifts all influence the market. Even local supply levels can cause rapid changes in payout rates.
Does a missing catalytic converter reduce a junk car’s value?
Yes. Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum and rhodium, and removing one can reduce your payout by $50–$450, depending on type and vehicle.
Does vehicle condition affect scrap value?
Only slightly. Scrap value is primarily based on weight and metal content. However, complete vehicles with reusable parts may receive a slightly higher payout.
Are older cars worth more or less as scrap?
Older vehicles often contain more steel and fewer lightweight alloys, which can boost scrap value. However, lighter curb weights may offset this advantage.
What is a car shell worth in scrap?
A stripped car shell weighs less but still contains recyclable steel. Depending on weight, expect $100 to $300 based on current rates of $160–$210 per ton.
Can I negotiate scrap car prices?
Yes. While scrap pricing is mostly based on weight, getting multiple quotes and understanding your vehicle’s components can help you negotiate a better offer.
Get Your Car's Exact Scrap Value Today
Don't guess your car's worth based on weight alone. We calculate exact value including all metals, parts, and current regional prices. Average customer receives 20-30% more than basic scrap calculations suggest.